Kona Reef, Big Island

Kona Reef is an oceanfront condo resort in Hawaii, offering a local-style ambiance and a convenient in-town location within walking distance to shopping, restaurants, bars, and entertainment. The resort features an oceanfront saltwater pool, jacuzzi, BBQ grills, outdoor dining pavilion, and a well-maintained tropical common area with security patrols. Guests can enjoy the public beach right next door for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing, as well as the nearby Honl's Beach, one of the best white sandy beaches on the Kona Coast.

The resort provides ample parking options, including a rooftop parking area, street-level outdoor parking, and two underground levels of a covered parking garage. Kona Reef is not only close to Kona Town's attractions but also just one mile from the Ironman pier and two miles from the best snorkeling in Kona. With its oceanfront amenities, convenient location, and proximity to various activities, Kona Reef is an ideal destination for vacationers seeking a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Hawaii.

    Kona Reef Quick Facts:


  • Address: 75-5888 Ali‘i Dr,Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
  • Property Size: ~3.1 acres (130 units)
  • Reviews: 4.77 / 5.0 (from 3748 reviews)
  • Average Price: $367/night for 1 bedroom units
  • Rentals: Kona Reef Vacation Rentals

Kona Reef Average Rates


As of October 2025, the average price of a 1 bedroom unit at Kona Reef is $367. The average price of a 2 bedroom unit is $541. These averages include Hawaii's 18% accommodation tax as well as the cleaning and booking fees rentals charge. Also note that prices vary depending on the specifc unit and season (holiday rates are usually higher). Visit the Kona Reef Rentals page to see specific unit prices for your dates.

Kona Reef's Best Rentals

View All 68 Kona Reef Rentals (with vacancy and search options)

What Do Guests Think? An Analysis of 1000 Guest Reviews


Reviewer Portrait

The following executive summary is based on a comprehensive and impartial AI analysis of guest reviews. Keep in mind that all units are individually owned, and review scores among units can vary considerably.

Travelers rave about Kona Reef’s oceanfront setting and walk-to-everything location. Most describe spending sunrise to sunset on the lanai watching surfers, boogie boarders, outriggers, dolphins and seasonal whales, with the sound of waves as a constant backdrop and postcard sunsets each night. The pool, hot tub and BBQs sit right by the water, there’s a grassy oceanfront lawn with loungers, and Honl’s Beach next door adds a lively, local vibe. Being a short stroll from Kailua-Kona’s restaurants, shops, and the pier is a major plus and makes this a convenient home base for exploring the Big Island.

Units are individually owned, but many guests find them clean, comfortable and impressively well stocked—full kitchens, in‑unit washer/dryers, beach gear (chairs, umbrellas, coolers, snorkel sets), and thoughtful extras. Quite a few condos have been nicely remodeled, beds are often noted as comfy, and hosts are frequently praised for fast, friendly communication. Parking is included and generally easy, though spaces can be tight or fill late. Overall, repeat stays and “would book again” comments are common.

Themes to know: this is an older, well-kept complex with variability between units. Some condos are modern; others feel dated or need a deeper clean, and occasional maintenance hiccups (sticky sliders, appliance issues) crop up but are usually addressed quickly. Air conditioning differs by unit—some have split AC in living room and bedroom, others only in the living room, and a few rely on ocean breezes and fans—so confirm if cooling is important, especially in warmer months. Honl’s Beach is small and often rocky (great for surfing and people-watching, less for casual swimming), and a handful of reviewers noted road noise or the presence of unhoused individuals near the adjacent park, typically not disruptive. If you pick an updated, oceanfront unit that matches your AC and location preferences, Kona Reef delivers the classic Kona experience: easy days by the water, spectacular sunsets, and effortless access to town.

This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 1000 reviews

Recent Kona Reef Reviews


Ideal spot overlooking a small beach park. Property was exactly as photos advertised. Walking distance to restaurants and shopping, easy underground parking. Only problem was that we wanted to stay longer! We did not give ourselves enough time in Kona after starting our trip on the Hilo side of the island.
stefanie v.
July 2025

Lovely condo with amenities you need for a relaxing vacation. So happy with Wayne's customer service.
Naz B.
July 2025

This condo is wonderful close walking to town it’s a lovely place with wonderful amenities and decoration of home . Sit on balcony for wonderful view of the ocean . All things we needed to cook, go to the beach . Quiet neighborhood. I actually would love to live in this location !! Thank you for the wonderful home !
Susan H.
July 2025

More than what i expected for my dollar. Things I would use on a daily basis. It is also about location, couldn't have been any better, short walk to bars, shopping or just the beach. Love that the room had beach chairs, umbrella and towels. Made good use of them all week. They were good ones too. One thing to comment, kept getting warning about parking. It is not a smart idea to keep a placard in the vehicle stating where you are staying and tucked it away when we were out and about. Something i learned in my visits to many locations. It wiuld be smarted to give the license plate number to management. Speaking of management, we had to interface with the manager about a few alarms that went bad in the room during our stay. But we worked it out.
Anthony G.
June 2025

All the amenities needed for a great vacation and the view of the ocean from the patio is spectacular with the waves crashing and seeing a few wave riders showing their skills. Awesome sunsets to the right and plenty of birdwatching and activity, too from this location. Easy walk to the market.
Spencer H.
June 2025

We’ve stayed in a couple other ocean front units at Kona Reef, and this was the nicest of them. Nicely remodeled, and extremely well stocked with high quality items.It has an extra bathroom and larger unit compared to most of the one bedroom units. The outside area is a bit wider too, which gives room for a dining table plus two lounge chairs.The bed was a very good bed, better than other beds we’ve had in Kona Reef units. If there is any one improvement for the unit, a top tier bed would be the one thing I could ask for. Note that is definitely not a complaint; the unit itself is so good that is literally the only improvement I could even think of.Would definitely stay again.
Doug E.
June 2025

Super location, nice kitchen, comfy beds.
Lisa E.
June 2025

We were so pleased with this condo! The air conditioning was awesome to have. The view of the ocean just couldn’t be beat! Would highly recommend.
Nicole H.
June 2025

We stayed here at the end of June with 2 kids. The place is clean and in a really great location in Kailua-Kona. The owners are really responsive. We appreciate having the space with littles and the ocean view. The unit is located next to the pool so it can get loud or you are looking into other units. Not a huge issue as long as you're not looking for that extra bit of privacy. It is clearly stated there is no AC, and there are a couple of extra fans but some days were rough with the heat and humidity. Even with the windows open, the furniture felt damp at times. Again, not a huge issue but if you're traveling with kids who are still napping or go to bed early, just something to consider.The unit is easy access to a small beach, ocean front stroll in the grass, parking is convenient, ands you can walk to the little downtown area.
amie h.
June 2025

The condo is perfect and somehow stocked with everything you might need.
GOGI g.
June 2025

Great olace to stay. Easy to walk to downtown fiid and shops. Beach right next door Clean, confortable rental. Would come back!!
Kathleen M K.
June 2025

We loved our stay and the location was amazing. Sitting right on the ocean, the views and sounds were amazing. We witnessed the most glorious sunsets, and walked to town a couple times. The air conditioner and ceiling fans kept us comfortable and desk area was key for my husband being able to work as needed. The elevators were broken (which is no reflection on the owners of the unit) but it did make lugging our heavy luggage a task since it's on the 3rd floor. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would stay there again.
Cheryl R.
June 2025

The place was lovely and was very well equipped. Very comfortable and in a great location. Quiet as we like it.
helaine c.
June 2025

Very nice and extremely impressed with the view
Mark E L.
June 2025

The unit we stayed in was very very nice. The view was spectacular, kitchen was well stocked with most things we needed. It is close to downtown, shopping and restaurants, yet far enough away from most of the nighttime noise associated with the main tourist areas. The property had a few areas that could use some updating, but the pool area was very well maintained and pleasant to spend time in. Would like to see a bit more daily maintenance in the lawn area, people left trash there that no one picked up for days. I would highly recommend this unit for a good family location.
Quinn H.
June 2025

This unit is sublimely located. The view is everything one wants when planning a HI trip. Pool in complex is nice, with an adjacent hot tub and grill area. It is located a mile or so out of downtown Kona, so near to but not stuck in the middle of things. It is nice to have full kitchen and bathroom is decent. A couple or parents with 1-2 kids would have a fabulous time using this as a home base for exploring the big island.Some of my favorite memories of my whole trip at sitting on the lanai in the morning watching boats,outriggers, swimmers, etc go by in the distance. One day I even saw a a group of dolphins. Sunsets are magical too.
Jennifer L.
June 2025

Great location! Close to beach and shopping.
Emily L.
June 2025

We’ve had the pleasure of staying in this condo twice and absolutely loved it both times! The view is simply breathtaking, and there’s nothing better than relaxing on the lanai while watching the stunning sunsets. The condo is comfortable, well-maintained, and fully stocked with everything we need. We can’t wait to come back again!
Elizabeth H.
June 2025

This was a great location with easy walks to restaurants and the nearby beach (good for sun and snorkeling). Clean, enough amenities, not over the top but really solid. 10/10 would come back to this condo!
Benjamin H.
June 2025

Well spent a lot of time in the room. We both caught really bad colds. Still did some things. If we ever come back we’re renting this condo again. Thank you for letting us use your place.
dave p.
June 2025

We loved our stay in this unit. The ocean view is spectacular and we enjoyed watching dolphins from the lanai!Unit has all the amenities you’d need to feel at home. The location of Kona Reef is also great and we loved our morning walks to Kailua pier. Centrally located near great snorkeling, shopping and fining - what’s not to love! We’ll be back!!
Sachin G.
June 2025

This is a good stay near the center of Kailua. The condo is spacious and has a great view of the ocean (and surfers!). Everything was clean and well-organized. Check-in was good, parking is easy, overall a great home base.
Steven F.
June 2025

This unit was really just perfect for our week stay in Kona. It was clean, comfortable and had almost everything we needed for a wonderful stay. The unit had all of the beach gear and most of the cooking utensils we had hoped for. There were plenty of towels for the week and also a washer and dryer as well as detergent to launder our clothing. The view and the patio was the best part of our stay. We would definitely return to this unit on our next stay in Kona. Just a few small housekeeping tips for the owner: the bed is just ok. The foam topper helps rather then a hard bed but a new mattress would be ideal. The tub/ shower stopper was broken so i had to buy a stopper to take baths..also the shower inside curtain had mold. It was just a minor inconvenience. Also just recommend adding oven mits, spoon rest and a hot plate for cooking. The fan in the living room needs to be tightened up as it wobbled and looked like it could become a problem. Just small suggestions to make the unit more comfortable but again it was a great stay and lovely unit and we would definitely choose this unit over others we have stayed in at the Kona Reef resort.
Rick R.
June 2025

Very clean place, pictures on line were accurate. I’d go back tomorrow if I could Jim is an excellent host. Views can not possibly be beat at any rated place.
Richard A.
June 2025

The Seashore Oasis is absolutely a wonderful place to stay! The lanai was, of course, our favorite place to gather for coffee in the morning. We loved the sound of the waves crashing on the shoreline and rocks so close to this place. In addition, the location was easy for walking into town. All in all, an amazing stay!
Cathy N.
June 2025

Very unique place. Very good location. The unit is a bit deconditioned.The outdoor grill area is very clean and with multiple gas grills. Overall, the unit is nice for the rental price.
Robert M.
June 2025

Excellent location. Perfect place for our first family vacation with our adult children. Loved that they could walk into town. The lanai had the best view of the Big Island Sunset. The kitchen had everything necessary to cook a nice dinner in. Had everything you could possibly need for your stay.
Anne A.
June 2025

Beautiful views. Great location. Was not disappointed. Would definitely book again.
Joanne H.
June 2025

Building looked older , but unit was fresh, and the lanai facing the beach was perfect. Nice pool and great hot tub. Just what I was looking for, and a short walk to town,
shari t.
June 2025

The place was just as advertised. All the amenities one could ask for. Will definitely be staying here again on our next trip back.
robert s.
June 2025

We have stayed in Kona many times, so we knew we were booking a condo right at the water’s edge, next to a “boutique” beach, and walking distance from town. What we weren’t expecting were the special touches throughout the apartment, from delightfully decorated bathrooms to a designer kitchen to the “parade” of boogie borders outside the living room window; the epic waves that week called to the brave, and during the daylight hours, we saw a half dozen or more surfing, waiting, or wiping out. We didn’t expect this level of entertainment!We rented a car and made use of it, but being so close to town made avoiding traffic and parking a breeze. If you like a bit of adventure with your chill Hawaiian vacation, this could be a very good fit for you!
Deborah P.
June 2025

The location and proximity to the ocean five star!! The unit was dated, uncomfortable beds, corrosion everywhere and NO AC. Other units have AC in the complex. To remain competitive, our unit must make some upgrades.
Lane A.
June 2025

The condo was well kept. The lanai was amazing. A/C doesn’t reach bedroom well and that room was hot.
Rosanne D.
June 2025

View and shower were amazing. TVs should not need pages in a binder to figure out. Also, what good are instructions in a binder for getting into the apartment if you can't get into the apartment and the company's preferred texting communication is worthless? Thank goodness for the phone representative AND the property manager. Place only 1 keypad or lockbox on door and make sure they work. Also, dust the closet and leave room for hanging. Clean your floor fans, dust TV areas and closet floor. The beds were amazingly UNCOMFORTABLE! But the view and shower helped distract the inconveniences with being locked out and dust.
JASMINE D.
June 2025

My husband and I loved this condo! The view of the ocean was fabulous. The deck is pretty much right on the water, so it’s lovely watching and listening to the waves. The condo is clean, bright, and comfortable. Check-in and out process was very easy with the keyless entry. It was a short walk to downtown restaurants and bars. Also about a 5-7 min walk to Royal Kona Resort for food, drinks, or attending the luau.
Kelly S.
June 2025

Our stay was amazing.. the unit is very well stocked, we used the pool side grills, parking was easy, short walk to great restaurants. But the icing on the cake was sitting on the lanai morning & evening watching & listening to the waves crash! I stress over booking places to stay.... would definitely book this again!
Marshall D.
June 2025

We were celebrating our wedding anniversary, and while we have stayed at this condo complex several times before, this was our first time in this particular unit. This unit is absolutely our favorite! It was just as advertised, fully furnished, had everything we needed, and was clean and comfortable. The kitchen was well-stocked and allowed us to cook meals whenever we wanted. We spent much time on the lanai and enjoyed watching the dolphins, birds, surfers, and boats. We enjoyed great walks into town and visited several local restaurants during our visit. We highly recommend Huggo's & On the Rocks as they are very close by and the food was amazing! The Maitais were delicious! The pool was clean and had ample seating in the sun or the shade. We contacted the host once to make a request, which they graciously accommodated. They were very professional and pleasant to talk to. We will stay in this unit again and highly recommend it to others. Thank you for a wonderful experience!
Leigh Ann S.
June 2025

We had an incredible time at the condo. Wayne went above and beyond and was available at any time for issues. And then also gave us great tips on what to do. The condo has an amazing view and is at a great location. I highly recommend
Erin R.
June 2025

Conveniently located, walking distance to restaurants, markets, and shops. Also walking to small sandy beach right next door. Great balcony to watch surfers, boats, sunset, eating and lounging. We also enjoyed trying out the snorkel gear provided!
Liz V.
June 2025

Condo well maintained. Clean, organized & communication with owners was great. We love location as Kona Reef is within walking distance of Kailua town, but the best location is on the lanai early mornings & sunset watching the waves. No ka oi
Karen S.
June 2025

The location is amazing. Easy walking distance to local shops and restraunts, and has beach access with amazing views. The only real downside to this property was the little things that add comfort.The only AC was a window unit in the living room that ran on a timer. The timer isnt as big of a deal but the bedroom suffers dramatically at night. Honestly if a small unit was added to the bedroom we never would have needed to run the unit in the living room, as the patio had screen doors to allow fresh sea air to blow directly in. The only real complaint I had due to the struggles of sleeping comfortably at night. The next thing which wasnt as big of a deal is the bathroom was smaller and made my wife and I's morning routine of getting ready a little congested. This was not as big of a concern for us, I only mention it for those expecting aomething different. This place does have a full kitchen that someon easily could kick meals rather than eat out, as food prices are fairly steep. Those that are ballin on a budget, I would recomend running to target before and load up on some groceries. Side note: The targets here are insanely nice compared to our local target. They get a 10/10. LolOverall our stay was amazing due to its location. Plenty of parking and easy walking distance to a ton of places including beaches. The sunset view on the public shoreling was amazing! Would recommend to anyone, just dont expect AC.
Jarod S.
June 2025

Nice two bedroom! You can hear and see the ocean as it is right off your deck. Five minute walk to shops and restaurants. Would stay in this place again. Convenient!
Tom H.
June 2025

Great place with everything we needed. Beautiful views and walking distance to restaurants. AC made it comfortable to sleep! Would stay here again!
Angelique C.
June 2025

Great location right on the beach and downtown! Loved it
Tamara H.
June 2025

All was good except-mattress in the bedroom was soft and umcomfortable to sleep on. Suggest replacing.
CALVIN E.
June 2025

Nice condo. Beautiful view. The kitchen is well stocked. The primary bed was very comfortable. Check in info given in advance and accurate.
Kristen S.
June 2025

Everything was perfect
Ben N.
June 2025

I can not say enough about our hosts. I realized on the day we were set to arrive that i had made an error on the booking dates. I reached out to Regina and Scott to see if they could accommodate one extra day due to my error (I thought it was unlikely). Regina went out of her way to accommodate us. I was thrilled and so appreciative. Best hosts ever!!! In addition, the condo was just what we needed. The million dollar view and great location to walk to everything on Ali'i Drive was perfect. We also enjoyed the washer and dryer that is located in the unit. It was essential to us being able to pack lighter!!! Thanks again to Regina and Scott. I can't recommend them as hosts enough!
Lee I.
June 2025

Perched just above the shoreline, this property offers an unforgettable immersion into the natural poetry of Hawaii. The rhythmic crash of surf marks Hawaain time--slowly replenishing the spirit. Each day, rain or shine, ends in a blaze of color as the sun sinks into the Pacific, gilding the sea in molten gold. Rainbows appear with near-daily regularity, arcing across the sky like whispered promises, while sea turtles drift below and fishing boats hum up and down the coast, “mowing the lawn” in slow, meditative lines. Traditional waʻa glide past, paddles slicing in synchronized grace — a living tribute to Hawaiian heritage.The air is rich with salt and the heady sweetness of plumeria, a sensory balm that lingers long after sunset. Some great snorkeling coves and swimming beaches are a short commute away, plus a lively collection of shops and shave ice stands where flavors bloom like tropical flowers.What truly elevates the stay is Jim, the owner — a host of uncommon generosity and warmth. He is attentive without intrusion, always ready with insightful recommendations or fascinating island lore, should you ask. His care is evident in every detail. Make sure you ask him about island trivia.This is not simply a place to stay, but one to feel, to breathe in, and to remember. A rare haven where land, sea, and spirit converge in quiet harmony.
Justin M.
June 2025

Great location and unit with everything you need for a great visit! We were very happy and the owners are very friendly and communicative.
Susan L.
June 2025


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